Rice Lake in North Vancouver -

Rice Lake is a beautiful and tranquil lake located in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park in North Vancouver, British Columbia. It was once used as a reservoir for drinking water but is now a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and bird watching. The lake is surrounded by a forest of coniferous trees, and there are several trails that lead to its shores.

The Rice Lake hike is an easy 2.5 km loop trail that takes about 1–2 hours to complete. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for all ages and abilities. Rice Lake is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It is a peaceful and relaxing place to spend a day, and there is plenty to see and do in the area.

Essential Information

Coordinates: 49.2969° N, 123.0679° W
Elevation: 180 meters (590 feet)
Area: 10.2 hectares (25 acres)
Depth: 10 meters (33 feet)
Permitted activities: Hiking, fishing, bird watching
Facilities: Picnic tables, benches, toilets

Location:

Rice Lake is 1000 Rice Lake Road, North Vancouver, BC V7G 1M3.

Direction:

Fees for Rice Lake

Here is an updated list of fees for Rice Lake:

Camping:

Cart-in campsites: $20 per night
Group campsites: $50 per night
Canoe-in campsites: $30 per night

Parking:

$5 per vehicle

Boat Launch:

$10 per vehicle

Camping Reservations:

You can make reservations for cart-in and group campsites online through the BC Parks website. Reservations for canoe-in campsites are not required, but it is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot.

Additional Fees:

There is a daily use fee of $2 per person.
There is a parking fee of $5 per vehicle.
There is a boat launch fee of $10 per vehicle.

Rice Lake History

Here is a brief overview of the history of Rice Lake in North Vancouver, British Columbia:

Indigenous Presence:

Rice Lake, nestled amidst the lush greenery of Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, holds a rich history that predates European colonization. For centuries, the area surrounding the lake served as a traditional territory for the Squamish Nation, who utilized the lake’s abundant resources for fishing, hunting, and gathering. The lake’s original name, “Cheam,” reflects its significance to the Squamish people, meaning “place where the water flows.”

European Arrival and Logging Era:

The arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century brought significant changes to the Rice Lake area. In 1864, the Knapp, Stout & Company logging firm established a storage dam on the site of an earlier Indigenous village, taking the name of the community from the location. This marked the beginning of a logging era that would transform the landscape surrounding the lake.

Growth and Development:

As logging activities intensified, the Rice Lake community grew, attracting families and businesses drawn to the area’s natural beauty and economic opportunities. In 1870, the village of Rice Lake was platted, and by 1882, the community boasted a four-year high school, reflecting the growing population and demand for education.

Transition and Conservation:

In the mid-20th century, Rice Lake’s role shifted from a logging hub to a recreational destination. The establishment of Lynn Headwaters Regional Park in 1978 formalized the area’s focus on outdoor recreation and conservation, preserving the natural beauty of Rice Lake and its surroundings for future generations.

Today:

Today, Rice Lake stands as a tranquil haven within Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, offering visitors a serene escape from the bustle of city life. The lake’s rich history is interwoven with the natural beauty that surrounds it, creating a unique and captivating destination for hikers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Read Chehalis Lake -British Columbia, Canada

Rice Lake Hiking Trails

The Rice Lake Loop Trail is the most popular trail in the area, and for good reason. It’s a well-maintained 2.5-kilometer (1.5-mile) loop that encircles the serene Rice Lake, offering stunning views of the lake, the surrounding forest, and the peaks of the Coast Mountains. The trail is suitable for all ages and abilities, and it’s a great way to spend a few hours exploring the beauty of Lynn Headwaters Regional Park.

Trailhead: The trailhead for the Rice Lake Loop Trail is located at the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve, which is accessible from Highway 1 East.

What to Expect:

Stunning views of Rice Lake
Lush forest
Mountain peaks
A variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and the occasional bald eagle
Picnic tables
Restrooms

Other Trails:

In addition to the Rice Lake Loop Trail, there are a few other trails in the area that are worth exploring. These include:

Lower Seymour Dam Walk: This short, easy walk takes you to the base of the Lower Seymour Dam, which offers stunning views of the dam and the surrounding area.
Twin Bridges Loop: This 3.5-kilometer (2.2-mile) loop takes you to two suspension bridges, which offer great views of the forest and the valley below.
Lynn Canyon Park: This park is located just a short drive from Rice Lake, and it offers a variety of trails, waterfalls, and suspension bridges.

Rice Lake Fishing Spots

here is a guide to some of the best fishing spots at Rice Lake in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, North Vancouver, British Columbia:

1. Boat Launch Area: The boat launch area is a popular spot for both shore and boat anglers. The water here is relatively deep and offers access to a variety of trout species, including rainbow trout and cutthroat trout.

2. West Shore: The west shore of Rice Lake is a good spot for fishing from shore. There are a number of rocky outcrops and weed beds along the shore that provide good cover for trout.

3. North Inlet: The north inlet of Rice Lake is a quieter spot that is often overlooked by anglers. The water here is shallower than in other parts of the lake, but it can still be productive for fishing trout.

4. South Shore: The south shore of Rice Lake is a good spot for fishing for larger trout. The water here is deeper and there are a number of underwater structures that attract trout.

5. East Shore: The east shore of Rice Lake is a good spot for fishing from shore. There are a number of small bays and inlets along the shore that provide good cover for trout.

Rice lake fishing

Rice Lake is a popular destination for fishing, offering a variety of fish species to catch. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and cutthroat trout, and it also supports a population of smallmouth bass, northern pike, and yellow perch. The best time to fish at Rice Lake is during the spring and fall when the water temperature is more moderate.

Fish Species:

Rainbow trout: Rainbow trout are the most common fish species in Rice Lake. They are a popular game fish that can be caught on a variety of baits and lures.
Cutthroat trout: Cutthroat trout are another popular game fish in Rice Lake. They are a bit more elusive than rainbow trout, but they can be caught on the same baits and lures.
Smallmouth bass: Smallmouth bass are a strong-fighting fish that can be caught on a variety of baits, including worms, crankbaits, and jigs.
Northern pike: Northern pike are a large and aggressive fish that can be caught on live bait, such as minnows or suckers.
Yellow perch: Yellow perch are a small but tasty fish that can be caught on a variety of baits, such as minnows, worms, and corn.

Fishing Regulations:

The daily limit for trout is five fish per day.
The minimum size for trout is 18 inches.
There is no daily limit or minimum size for smallmouth bass, northern pike, or yellow perch.

Fishing Locations:

There are several good fishing spots around Rice Lake. Some of the best spots include the boat launch area, the suspension bridge, and the north inlet.
You can also fish from shore, but it is more difficult to catch fish from the shore than from a boat.

Rice Lake kayaking

Here is a guide to kayaking at Rice Lake located in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, North Vancouver, British Columbia:

Planning Your Kayaking Trip:

Season: The best time to kayak at Rice Lake is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the lake is also accessible during the shoulder seasons, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

Time of Day: Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to kayak at Rice Lake, as the weather is cooler and the water is less choppy. Avoid kayaking during the hottest part of the day, as the sun can be very intense.

Equipment: You will need a kayak, paddle, life jacket, and sunscreen. You may also want to bring a hat, sunglasses, water, snacks, and a waterproof bag to store your belongings. Read Lions Valley Park: A Place to Connect with Nature

Launching Your Kayak:

Trailhead: The trailhead for the Rice Lake Loop Trail is located at the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve. There is a parking lot at the trailhead, and the parking fee is $5 per vehicle.

Launching: There are two main areas to launch your kayak at Rice Lake: the boat launch at the end of Rice Lake Road and the swimming area near the suspension bridge. The boat launch is larger and has more parking, but the swimming area is more scenic.

Paddling the Lake:

Route: There is no set route for kayaking at Rice Lake, but you can easily paddle around the entire lake. The total distance of the lake is approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles).

Stopping Points: There are a few islands and points of interest around the lake that you can stop at to take photos or have a picnic.

Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, birds, and turtles. You may also be lucky enough to see a bald eagle or other raptors soaring overhead.

Rice Lake Seasons

Here is a summary of the four seasons and what you can expect to experience at Rice Lake in each season

Summer (June-August)

Weather: Warm and sunny with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 28 degrees Celsius.
Water temperature: Warm enough for swimming with an average temperature of 18 to 24 degrees Celsius.
Activities: Kayaking, swimming, hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.
Crowds: Can be quite busy, especially on weekends and holidays.

Autumn (September-November)

Weather: Mild temperatures with average temperatures ranging from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius.
Water temperature: Still warm enough for swimming, but can start to cool down towards the end of the season.
Activities: Kayaking, hiking, fishing, and leaf viewing.
Crowds: Thinner than in the summer, but still popular with locals and tourists.

Winter (December-February)

Weather: Cold and snowy with average temperatures ranging from 0 to 5 degrees Celsius.
Water temperature: Freezing, so swimming is not recommended.
Activities: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating.
Crowds: Very thin, but still a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Spring (March-May)

Weather: Mild temperatures with average temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius.
Water temperature: Slowly warming up, but still too cold for swimming.
Activities: Hiking, fishing, and wildflower viewing.
Crowds: Starting to pick up as the weather gets warmer, but still not as busy as in the summer.

Wildlife at Rice Lake North Vancouver

Rice Lake in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, North Vancouver, British Columbia, is a haven for a variety of wildlife, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and wildlife observation. Here are some of the animals you might encounter at Rice Lake:

Birds: Rice Lake is home to a diverse array of birds, including woodpeckers, warblers, sparrows, eagles, owls, and ducks. Some of the most common birds you may see here include:
- Western Woodpecker: With its distinctive black-and-white plumage, the Western Woodpecker is a common sight at Rice Lake.
- American Robin: The American Robin is another common bird at Rice Lake, and its cheerful song can be heard throughout the park.
- American Dipper: The American Dipper is a small, aquatic bird that is often seen perched on rocks at the edge of Rice Lake.
- Bald Eagle: The iconic Bald Eagle is a rare but possible sighting at Rice Lake, especially if you visit during the winter months when the eagles descend from the mountains to fish in the lake.
Mammals: Rice Lake is also home to a variety of mammals, including deer, coyotes, raccoons, and squirrels. Deer and coyotes are most active at dawn and dusk, while raccoons are nocturnal. Squirrels are active throughout the day.
Fish: Rice Lake is stocked with rainbow trout and cutthroat trout, and fishing is permitted with a valid license.

Family activities near Rice Lake

Here are some family-friendly activities near Rice Lake in North Vancouver, British Columbia:

1. Hiking and Exploring Trails

Rice Lake Loop Trail: This well-maintained 2.5-kilometer (1.5-mile) loop trail is perfect for families with children of all ages. It offers stunning views of Rice Lake and the surrounding forest.
Twin Bridges Loop: This 3.5-kilometer (2.2-mile) loop trail takes you to two suspension bridges, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the forest and valley below.
Lower Seymour Dam Walk: This short, easy walk takes you to the base of the Lower Seymour Dam, where you can learn about the dam’s history and admire the impressive structure.

2. Fishing and Picnicking

Fishing: Cast your line into the waters of Rice Lake and try your luck at catching trout. Fishing is permitted with a valid license.
Picnicking: Pack a lunch and enjoy a meal amidst the serene beauty of nature. There are several picnic tables located along the Rice Lake Loop Trail.

3. Wildlife Viewing

Birdwatching: Keep an eye out for a variety of bird species, including woodpeckers, nuthatches, and the occasional bald eagle.
Deer Spotting: Keep your eyes peeled for deer as they scamper through the undergrowth.
Eagles Soaring: Look up to the sky and see if you can spot any bald eagles soaring overhead.

4. Swimming and Cooling Off

Swimming in Rice Lake: On a hot summer day, take a refreshing swim in the cool waters of Rice Lake. Be sure to supervise children closely.
Splashing in Twin Falls: Located near the Twin Bridges Loop Trail, Twin Falls is a small but charming waterfall where you can splash around and cool off. Read Cates Park/Whey-ah-Wichen- All need to know

5. Visiting Lynn Canyon Park

Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge: Take a walk across the iconic Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, a thrilling experience that offers stunning views of the canyon below.
Lynn Canyon Trails: Explore the many trails in Lynn Canyon Park, which offer a variety of scenery, from waterfalls to viewpoints.
Nature Centre: Visit the Lynn Canyon Nature Centre to learn about the park’s ecosystem and its diverse wildlife.

These are just a few ideas for family-friendly activities near Rice Lake. With its abundance of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Rice Lake is a great place to spend a day with your loved ones.

Best time to visit Rice Lake North Vancouver

Rice Lake in North Vancouver is a beautiful and serene destination that can be enjoyed year-round. However, the best time to visit depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowds.

Spring (March-May)

Pros: The weather is starting to warm up, but it’s not too hot yet. The forest is in bloom, and the waterfalls are flowing with snowmelt.
Cons: The trails can be muddy, and the mosquitoes can be a nuisance.

Summer (June-August)

Pros: The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for swimming, fishing, and hiking. The wildflower meadows are in full bloom, and the lake is teeming with life.
Cons: The trails can be crowded, and the parking lot can fill up quickly.

Fall (September-November)

Pros: The crowds have thinned out, and the weather is still warm enough for outdoor activities. The fall foliage is spectacular, and the air is crisp and refreshing.
Cons: The swimming season is over, and the trails can be muddy and wet.

Winter (December-February)

Pros: The snow-covered landscape is stunning, and the lake is often frozen over, making it a great place for ice skating and snowshoeing.
Cons: The weather can be cold and wet, and the trails can be icy and slippery.

Here is a summary of the best times to visit Rice Lake for specific activities:

Hiking: Spring, summer, and fall
Fishing: Spring and summer
Swimming: Summer
Wildlife viewing: Year-round
Fall foliage: Fall
Snowshoeing and ice skating: Winter

Hotels near Rice Lake North Vancouver

Here are some hotels near Rice Lake North Vancouver and their price in $:

Holiday Inn & Suites North Vancouver Location: 824 Bear Paw Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7J 2J2, Canada Distance from Rice Lake: 5.6 km Price: $$159 – $$249

This hotel offers comfortable and affordable accommodation with a variety of amenities, including an indoor pool, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi. It is also located close to a number of restaurants and shops.

Capri Hotel Location: 127 E 15th St, North Vancouver, BC V7L 2P5, Canada Distance from Rice Lake: 7.2 km Price: $$109 – $$189

This hotel is located in a quiet residential area and offers a more relaxed atmosphere. It has a small outdoor pool, a sauna, and a restaurant.

North Shore Inn Location: 1333 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7L 2K3, Canada Distance from Rice Lake: 8.1 km Price: $$119 – $$179

This hotel is located close to a number of popular attractions, including Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain. It has a large outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant.

Edgewater Hotel Location: 141 W 15th St, North Vancouver, BC V7L 2P4, Canada Distance from Rice Lake: 8.4 km Price: $$189 – $$259

This hotel is located on the waterfront and offers stunning views of the Burrard Inlet. It has a spa, a fitness center, and a restaurant.

Hotel Indigo North Vancouver – Capilano Location: 1133 W 15th St, North Vancouver, BC V7L 2P3, Canada Distance from Rice Lake: 8.5 km Price: $$229 – $$329

This hotel is located in a vibrant neighborhood and offers a variety of stylish amenities, including a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant.

Best views Rice Lake

Here are some of the best views of Rice Lake, according to Google Maps:

Narrows Park: This park has a beautiful view of Rice Lake and the surrounding wetlands. It is a great place to go for a walk, picnic, or swim.
Cedar Side Walking Trail: This trail is a great way to see Rice Lake from a different perspective. It is a short and easy trail that is perfect for a family outing.
Veterans Memorial Park: This park has a beautiful view of Rice Lake and the surrounding hills. It is a great place to go for a walk, picnic, or fly a kite.
Rice Lake Fishing pier: This pier is a great place to fish for Rice Lake’s many different species of fish. It is also a great place to relax and enjoy the view of the lake.
Curriers Lakeview Lodge: This lodge has a beautiful view of Rice Lake from its rooms and balconies. It is a great place to stay if you want to enjoy the lake for a few days.

These are just a few of the many great places to see Rice Lake. With its stunning scenery and abundance of activities, Rice Lake is a great place to visit for a day or a weekend. Read Bowmanville Butter Tart Festival – 2024

Dining near Rice Lake

Here are some highly-rated dining options near Rice Lake in North Vancouver, British Columbia:

Casa Mexicana: This family-friendly restaurant serves authentic Mexican cuisine, including tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and fajitas. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and a spacious patio that is perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors.
Adventures Restaurant & Pub: This pub offers a variety of pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. The pub has a lively atmosphere and a large selection of beers on tap.
Lehman’s Supper Club & Lounge: This supper club offers a classic dining experience with a menu featuring steaks, seafood, and pasta dishes. The restaurant has an elegant atmosphere and a wine list that has been awarded by Wine Spectator.
Norske Nook – Rice Lake: This Norwegian restaurant serves traditional Norwegian dishes, including herring, meatballs, and waffles. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Nancy’s Northside Family Rest: This family restaurant serves a variety of comfort food, including pancakes, omelets, burgers, and sandwiches. The restaurant has a friendly atmosphere and is a great place for a casual meal.

These are just a few of the many great dining options near Rice Lake. With its variety of cuisines and atmospheres, there is something to satisfy everyone’s taste.

Events at Rice Lake

Rice Lake is a charming destination in North Vancouver, British Columbia, offering a peaceful escape into nature’s embrace. While the lake itself is a tranquil haven for outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding area also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, adding vibrancy to the serene atmosphere. Here’s a glimpse into some of the notable events that take place near Rice Lake:

Rice Lake Rotary Annual Summer Festival: This lively festival, held annually during the summer months, draws crowds with its vibrant atmosphere, family-friendly activities, and live entertainment. Enjoy food stalls, craft vendors, carnival rides, and musical performances amidst the scenic backdrop of Rice Lake.
Rice Lake Birdwatching Tours: For avid birdwatchers, Rice Lake is a treasure trove of avian species. Join guided birdwatching tours to spot a variety of birds, including woodpeckers, nuthatches, and the occasional bald eagle, while learning about their ecology and behavior.
Rice Lake Fishing Tournaments: Anglers can test their skills and compete for prizes at fishing tournaments held at Rice Lake. These events attract both locals and visitors, offering a chance to enjoy the lake’s abundant trout population.
Rice Lake Arts and Crafts Fair: Local artisans showcase their talents at the Rice Lake Arts and Crafts Fair, held annually during the fall season. Browse through an array of handcrafted items, from jewelry and paintings to pottery and woodwork.
Rice Lake Winter Festival: Embrace the winter season with the Rice Lake Winter Festival, featuring ice skating, sledding, and snowshoeing. Enjoy warm beverages, festive treats, and winter-themed activities amidst the snow-covered landscape.

These events add a touch of excitement and variety to the tranquil atmosphere of Rice Lake, making it a destination that offers more than just scenic beauty. Read Exploring the Chinese Cultural Festivals

Rice Lake Camping

Rice Lake is a popular destination for camping, offering a variety of campsites to suit different needs and preferences. The park offers a total of 55 campsites, with 20 cart-in campsites, 20 group campsites, and 15 canoe-in campsites. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, or you can make reservations for cart-in and group campsites online through the BC Parks website.

Types of Campsites:

Cart-in campsites: These campsites are located near the Rice Lake Loop Trail and are accessible by handcart only. They are ideal for backpackers and those who want a more secluded camping experience. They have a fire pit, picnic table, and food storage locker. Some campsites also have a pit toilet. There is a water pump located near the boat launch.
Group campsites: These campsites are located near the Rice Lake boat launch and can accommodate up to 30 people. They are ideal for large groups and family reunions. They have a fire pit, picnic table, food storage locker, and pit toilet. There is a water pump located near the boat launch.
Canoe-in campsites: These campsites are located on the south shore of Rice Lake and are accessible by canoe only. They are ideal for those who want a truly remote camping experience. They have a fire pit, picnic table, and food storage locker. Some campsites also have a pit toilet. There is no water pump located near the canoe-in campsites.

Camping Fees:

The camping fee for cart-in campsites is 20$ per night. The fee for camping group campsites is 50$ per night. The camping fee for canoe-in campsites is 30$ per night.

Camping Regulations:

All camping at Rice Lake must be done in designated campsites.
Campfires must be contained within the fire pit and extinguished completely before leaving the campsite.
Food must be stored in the provided food storage locker to prevent wildlife encounters.
Leave no trace of your visit. Pack out all of your trash and dispose of it properly.
Respect the natural environment and wildlife.

Rice Lake Road

Rice Lake Road is a short, scenic road that leads to Rice Lake in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park. The road is located in the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve, which is accessible from Highway 1 East.

Features

Rice Lake Road is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. The road is also a good place to see some of the wildlife that calls Lynn Headwaters Regional Park home, such as deer, owls, and eagles.

Difficulty

The road is gravel and can be a bit rough, so it is recommended that you drive a four-wheel-drive vehicle. The road is also not well-maintained in the winter, so it is best to avoid driving on it during those months.

Access

To reach Rice Lake Road, take Exit 22 off Highway 1 East. Follow Lillooet Road up the hill until you reach the end of the road. Turn right onto the gravel road and continue until you reach the parking lot for the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve. From the parking lot, follow Rice Lake Road to the lake.

Parking

There is a parking lot at the end of Rice Lake Road. The parking lot is free and can accommodate up to 80 vehicles.

Trails

There are several trails that lead from Rice Lake Road to the lake. The most popular trail is the Rice Lake Loop Trail, which is a 2.5-kilometer (1.5-mile) loop that takes about 1-2 hours to complete.

Fishing

Fishing is permitted in Rice Lake with a valid fishing license. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and cutthroat trout.

Birdwatching

Rice Lake is a great place to see a variety of birds, including woodpeckers, warblers, and eagles.

Lynn Canyon Lake

Lynn Canyon Lake is a small but picturesque lake nestled amidst the towering trees of Lynn Headwaters Regional Park in North Vancouver, British Columbia. The lake offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and mountains, making it a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and swimming. Read Discover the Spiritual Harmony in Mosques Laval

Trail Highlights

Serene lakeside ambiance: Wander along the well-maintained trail and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Lynn Canyon Lake.
Dramatic mountain backdrop: Admire the majestic peaks of the Coast Mountains as they rise majestically above the lake, adding to the scenic splendor.
Opportunities for wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for various wildlife species, such as deer, birds, and the occasional bald eagle.
Family-friendly activities: Enjoy a picnic lunch on the shores of the lake, cast your fishing line in search of trout, or take a refreshing swim to cool off on a hot summer day.

Parking and Access

Parking: There is a parking lot near the trailhead for Lynn Canyon Lake. The parking lot is located at the end of Lynn Canyon Road, which is accessible from Highway 1 East.
Trailhead: The trailhead for Lynn Canyon Lake is located at the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge.